The Chemical Composition and Nutritional Value of Chia Seeds-Current State of Knowledge
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nutrients
Review
The Chemical Composition and Nutritional Value of
Chia Seeds—Current State of Knowledge
Bartosz Kulczyński 1 , Joanna Kobus-Cisowska 1 , Maciej Taczanowski 2 , Dominik Kmiecik 1
and Anna Gramza-Michałowska 1, *
1 Department of Gastronomy Sciences and Functional Foods, Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition,
Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 31, 60–624 Poznań, Poland;
bartosz.kulczynski@up.poznan.pl (B.K.); joanna.kobus-cisowska@up.poznan.pl (J.K.-C.);
dominik.kmiecik@up.poznan.pl (D.K.)
2 Department of Food Quality and Management, Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, Poznań University of
Life Sciences, Wojska Polskiego 31, 60–624 Poznań, Poland; maciej.taczanowski@up.poznan.pl
* Correspondence: anna.gramza@up.poznan.pl; Tel.: +48-61-848-7331
Received: 6 May 2019; Accepted: 27 May 2019; Published: 31 May 2019
Abstract: Chia (Salvia hispanica) is an annual herbaceous plant, the seeds of which were consumed
already thousands of years ago. Current research results indicate a high nutritive value for chia seeds
and confirm their extensive health-promoting properties. Research indicates that components of chia
seeds are ascribed a beneficial effect on the improvement of the blood lipid profile, through their
hypotensive, hypoglycaemic, antimicrobial and immunostimulatory effects. This article provides a
review of the most important information concerning the potential application of chia seeds in food
production. The chemical composition of chia seeds is presented and the effect of their consumption
on human health is discussed. Technological properties of chia seeds are shown and current legal
regulations concerning their potential use in the food industry are presented.
Keywords: Salvia hispanica; chia seeds; fatty acids; omega-3; antioxidant activity; health-promoting
properties
1. Introduction
Adequate nutrition is an important element in the prevention of many civilisation-related diseases
such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity. Both state institutions and non-governmental
organisations issue nutritional recommendations to protect human health, inhibit the development of
selected diseases and alleviate their symptoms [1]. An increasingly important health-promoting role is
ascribed to bioactive food components. They were defined by Biesalski and co-workers as nutritional
components or non-nutritional compounds naturally found in the raw material or formed in the
product in the course of technological processes, which may enhance, inhibit or modify physiological
and metabolic functions of the organism [2]. The American Dietetic Association supplements this
definition by additionally stressing the importance of health safety of bioactive food [3]. Bioactive
compounds include, e.g., polyphenols, carotenoids, phytoestrogens, sterols, stanols, vitamins, dietary
fibre, fatty acids, probiotics, prebiotics, and bioactive peptides [4–6]. In view of the health-promoting
properties of food in recent years we have been observing a considerable interest in products of plant
origin, which have been investigated in many studies [7–10]. An example of a raw material with
properties considered very interesting by dietitians and food technologists is Salvia hispanica, commonly
called chia. The word “chia” is a Spanish adaptation of “chian” or “chien”, originating from Nahuati
and meaning “oily”. Chia is an herbaceous plant that has also been used for medicinal purposes
for thousands of years [11–14]. Currently, chia seeds are consumed as ingredients or additions to
Nutrients 2019, 11, 1242; doi:10.3390/nu11061242 www.mdpi.com/journal/nutrientsNutrients 2019, 11, 1242 2 of 16
many foodstuffs: baked products, muesli, dairy drinks, fruit smoothies or salads [15–18]. They are
also used as thickeners in soups and sauces. The aim of this article is to present current information
concerning potential use of chia seeds in the food industry, focusing on their chemical composition
and health-promoting properties as well as legal acts regulating their use in food production.
2. Botanical Characteristics
Salvia hispanica, also called chia, is an annual herbaceous plant belonging to the family Lamiaceae.
This plant may reach 1 m in height. Its serrated leaves, arranged opposite, are 4–8 cm in length and 3–5 cm
in width [14]. Its white or blue flowers are bisexual, of 3–4 mm in size, growing in whorls at shoot tips.
After overblowing chia forms round fruits, containing many tiny, oval seeds of 2 mm in length and 1
mm in width. Seed surface is smooth, shiny, ranging in colour from white through grey to brown,
with irregularly arranged black spots [14,19]. Initially, chia was grown in tropical and subtropical
climates. At present, it is grown worldwide, particularly in Argentina, Peru, Paraguay, Ecuador, Mexico,
Nicaragua, Bolivia, Guatemala and Australia. In Europe, it is grown in greenhouses [12,14,20]. Chia is
not frost-resistant. In nature, it grows mainly in mountainous regions [12,21]. Salvia hispanica develops
itself properly in sandy loam and clay loam soils with good drainage conditions [22]. The reported
seed yield from selected commercial fields located in Argentina and Colombia ranges from 450 to
1250 kg/ha; however, under advantageous experimental conditions, the yield may rich well above
2000 kg/ha [23].
3. Chemical Composition
The chemical composition of chia seeds has been analysed in many studies. Detailed data on basic
chia seeds composition is presented in Figure 1. Chia seeds are ascribed high nutritive value particularly
thanks to their high contents of dietary fibre and fat (Table 1). Chia seeds contain approximately 30–34 g
dietary fibre, of which the insoluble fraction (IDF) accounts for approximately 85–93%, while soluble
dietary fibre (SDF) is approximately 7–15% [24,25]. In terms of dietary fibre content, chia seeds exceed
dried fruits, cereals or nuts (Figure 2). The fatty acid profile is of particular interest. It is characterised
by high contents of polyunsaturated fatty acids, mainly α-linolenic acid (ALA), which accounts for
approximately 60% all fatty acids. Linoleic, oleic and palmitic acids are found in lower amounts
(Table 2). Chia seeds have greater contents of omega-3 acids than flaxseed. We also need to stress the
advantageous ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 acids, which is approximately 0.3:0.35 [26–31]. Chia seeds
are also a good source of plant protein, which accounts for approximately 18–24% their mass [32].
Analyses of the amino acid composition (Table 3) confirmed the presence of 10 exogenous amino acids,
among which the greatest contents were for arginine, leucine, phenylalanine, valine and lysine. Proteins
in chia seeds are also rich in endogenous amino acids, mainly glutamic and aspartic acids, alanine,
serine and glycine [27,33,34]. It needs to be stressed that chia seeds are gluten-free and as such may
be consumed by celiac patients [14]. Moreover, chia seeds supply many minerals, with phosphorus
(860–919 mg/100 g), calcium (456–631 mg/100 g), potassium (407–726 mg/100g) and magnesium
(335–449 mg/100 g) found in greatest amounts [33,35]. Studies also confirmed the presence of some
vitamins, mainly vitamin B1 (0.6 mg/100 g), vitamin B2 (0.2 mg/100 g) and niacin (8.8 mg/100 g) [33,35].
Chia seeds are also a rich source of particularly interesting groups of phytocompounds characterised
by high biological activity [36,37]. These are particularly polyphenols: gallic, caffeic, chlorogenic,
cinnamic and ferulic acids, quercetin, kaempferol, epicatechin, rutin, apigenin and p-coumaric acid.
Isoflavones, such as daidzein, glycitein, genistein and genistin, are found in small amounts (Table 4).
Ciftci et al. showed the presence of campesterol (472 mg/kg of lipids), stigmasterol (1248 mg/kg of
lipids), β-sitosterol (2057 mg/kg of lipids) and ∆5-avenasterol [26]. Moreover, it was found that chia
seeds also contain tocopherols: α-tocopherol (8 mg/kg of lipids), γ-tocopherol (422 mg/kg of lipids)
and δ-tocopherol (15 mg/kg of lipids).Nutrients 2019, 11, 1242 3 of 16
Nutrients 2018, 10, x FOR PEER REVIEW 3 of 16
Figure 1. Basic
Figure 1. Basic composition
composition of
of chia
chia seeds
seeds [33].
[33].
Table 1. Nutritional value of chia seeds.
Table 1. Nutritional value of chia seeds.
Value
Nutrient Value
Nutrient USDA
USDA[33] [33] Jin etJin
al.et[35]
al. [35]
Energy Energy 486.0 486.0 kcal
kcal 562 562 kcal kcal
ProteinProtein 16.5 g/100 gg 24.224.2g/100 gg/100 g
16.5 g/100
Total lipid
Total lipid 30.7 30.7 40.240.2
Ash Ash 4.84.8 4.774.77
Carbohydrate
Carbohydrate 42.1 42.1 26.926.9
Dietary fibre 34.4 30.2
Dietary fibre 34.4 30.2
Calcium 631.0 mg/100 g 456 mg/100 g
Calcium 631.0 mg/100 g 456 mg/100 g
Iron 7.7 9.18
Magnesium Iron 335.07.7 9.18449
Magnesium
Phosphorus 335.0
860.0 449919
Phosphorus
Potassium 860.0
407.0 919 726
Potassium 16.0
Sodium 407.0 7260.26
ZincSodium 16.0
4.6 0.266.47
CopperZinc 0.94.6 6.471.86
ManganeseCopper 2.70.9 1.863.79
Vitamin C
Manganese 1.62.7 3.79
Thiamine
Vitamin C 0.61.6
Riboflavin
Thiamine 0.20.6 n.e.
Niacin 8.8
Riboflavin 0.2 n.e.
Vitamin E 0.5
Niacin 8.8
Folate 49.0 µg/100 g n.e. µg/100 g
Vitamin E 0.5
(n.e., not evaluated).
Folate 49.0 µg/100 g n.e. µg/100 g
(n.e., not evaluated).Nutrients 2019, 11, 1242 4 of 16
Nutrients 2018, 10, x FOR PEER REVIEW 4 of 16
Figure
Figure 2.
2. Fibre
Fibre contents
contents of
of selected
selected foods
foods [33].
[33].
Table 2.
Table A comparison
2. A comparison of
of fatty
fatty acid
acid profile
profile of
of chia
chia and
and flax
flax seeds
seeds (%).
(%).
Chia
Chia Flax
Flax
Fattyacids
Fatty Acids
Ciftci et
Ciftci et al.
al. [26] Nitrayova etetal.al.[27]
[26] Nitrayova [27] Ciftci
Ciftcietetal.al.
[26] Nitrayova etet
[26] Nitrayova al.al.
[27]
[27]
Saturated
Saturated Fats (SFA)
Fats (SFA)
Lauric
Lauricacid
acid (12:0)
(12:0) n.e.
n.e. 0.03
0.03 n.e.
n.e. 0.03
0.03
Myristicacid
Myristic acid (C14:0)
(C14:0) 0.06
0.06 0.06
0.06 0.07
0.07 0.04
0.04
Pentadecanoic acid (C15:0) 0.04 n.e. 0.05 n.e.
Pentadecanoic acid (C15:0)
Palmitic acid (C16:0)
0.04
7.1
n.e.
7.04
0.05
5.1
n.e.
5.39
Palmitic
Margaricacid
acid(C16:0)
(C17:0) 7.1
0.06 7.04
n.e. 5.1
0.08 5.39
n.e.
Margaric acid(C18:0)
Stearic acid (C17:0) 0.06
3.24 n.e.
2.84 0.08
3.3 n.e.
3.17
Arachidic
Stearic acidacid (20:0)
(C18:0) 0.24
3.24 0.02
2.84 0.18
3.3 0.15
3.17
Behenic acid (22:0) 0.08 n.e. 0.14 n.e.
Arachidic acid (20:0)
Lignoceric acid (24:0) 0.24
0.1 0.02
n.e. 0.18
0.09 0.15
n.e.
Behenic acid (22:0) 0.08 n.e. 0.14 n.e.
Monounsaturated Fats (MUFA)
Lignoceric acid (24:0) 0.1 n.e. 0.09 n.e.
Palmitoleic acid (C16:1) 0.2 0.03 0.09 0.02
Margaric acid (C17:0) Monounsaturatedn.e.
0.06 Fats (MUFA) 0.08 n.e
Palmitoleic acid (C16:1)
Oleic acid (C18:1 – ω-9) 0.2
10.53 0.03
7.3 0.09
18.1 0.02
18.7
Eicosenoic
Margaric acid
acid (20:1)
(C17:0) 0.16
0.06 n.e.
n.e. 0.2
0.08 n.e.
n.e
Oleic acid (C18:1 – ω-9) 10.53 Polyunsaturated
7.3 Fats 18.1 18.7
Eicosenoic
Linoleic acid acid
(C18:2(20:1)
– ω-6) 0.16
20.37 n.e.
18.89 0.2
15.3 n.e.
16.13
Linolenic acid (C18:3 – ω-3) 59.76 Polyunsaturated 63.79 Fats 58.2 56.37
Eicosadienoic acid (20:2) 0.08 n.e. n.e. n.e.
Linoleic acid (C18:2 – ω-6) 20.37 18.89 15.3 16.13
Summary
Linolenic acid (C18:3 – ω-3) 59.76 63.79 58.2 56.37
Eicosadienoic SFAacid (20:2) 8.65
0.08 9.99
n.e. 7.87
n.e. 8.78
n.e.
MUFA 10.95 7.33 18.5 18.72
PUFA 80.4 Summary82.68 73.63 72.5
SFA
Ratio n-6/n-3 8.65
0.35 9.99
0.3 7.87
0.27 8.78
0.29
MUFA 10.95 7.33 18.5
(n.e, not evaluated; n-6, omega-6 fatty acids; n-3, omega-3 fatty acids). 18.72
PUFA 80.4 82.68 73.63 72.5
Ratio n-6/n-3 0.35 0.3 0.27 0.29
(n.e, not evaluated; n-6, omega-6 fatty acids; n-3, omega-3 fatty acids).Nutrients 2019, 11, 1242 5 of 16
Table 3. Amino acid composition of proteins from chia seeds.
Content (g/100 g)
Amino Acid
USDA [33] Nitrayova et al. [27]
Essential amino acids
Arginine 2.14 2.00
Histidine 0.53 0.61
Isoleucine 0.80 0.74
Leucine 1.37 1.42
Lysine 0.97 0.93
Methionine 0.59 0.67
Phenylalanine 1.02 1.6
Threonine 0.71 0.54
Tryptophan 0.44 n/d
Valine 0.95 0.79
Non-essential amino acids
Cystine 0.41 0.42
Tyrosine 0.56 0.61
Alanine 1.04 0.94
Aspartic acid 1.69 1.28
Glutamic acid 3.50 2.87
Glycine 0.94 0.91
Proline 0.78 1.28
Serine 1.05 0.94
Table 4. Polyphenol and isoflavone contents in chia seeds.
Compound µg/g Seed Reference
Gallic acid 0.05; 11 Jin et al. [35]; Martínez-Cruz and Paredes-López [38]
Caffeic acid 27; 30.89 Martínez-Cruz and Paredes-López [38]; Coelho and Salas-Mellado [39]
Chlorogenic acid 4.68
Protocatechuic acid ethyl ester 0.74
Coelho and Salas-Mellado [39]
Ferulic acid trace
Polyphenols
Quercetin 0.17
Kaempferol 0.013
Kaempferol 3-O-glucoside 0.029
Epicatechin 0.029
Jin et al. [35]
Rutin 0.22
p-Coumaric acid 0.24
Apigenin 0.005
Daidzin 6.6
Glycitin 1.4
Isoflavones Genistin 3.4 Martínez-Cruz and Paredes-López [38]
Glycitein 0.5
Genistein 5.1
(n.d–not detected).
4. Health-Promoting Properties
Even though literature sources worldwide have presented numerous studies showing high
biological activity and many health-promoting properties of chia seeds for a quite a long time, a sharp
rise of interest in commercial applications of the seeds has only been observed recently [40–43].
Marineli et al. [44] aimed to assess the effect of consumed chia seeds on selected carbohydrate
metabolism indexes. They showed that rats consuming high-fat and high-fructose diet, in which
soybean oil was replaced with a 13.3% addition of chia seeds (w/w), were characterised by greater
tolerance of both glucose and insulin in comparison to the control. This effect was observed during both
short-term (six-week) and long-term (12-week) dietary interventions. In that study, a reduced blood
concentration of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) is reported for the group of animals consuming chia
seeds. Moreover, they recorded a decrease in the levels of hepatocellular damage markers, i.e., alanine
transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST), the high concentrations of which were causedNutrients 2019, 11, 1242 6 of 16
by the high-fat and high-fructose diet [44]. The effect of chia seeds consumption on carbohydrate
and lipid metabolism was also investigated by Silva et al. [45]. In their experiment Wistar rats were
divided into six groups: (1) fed casein as a source of protein; (2) fed a protein-free diet; and (3–6)
receiving chia seeds or chia seed flour, with or without thermal processing. They found that the
groups of animals receiving chia seeds and flour had lower blood concentrations of triglycerides
(TG), total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoproteins (LDL) and very low density lipoproteins (VLDL)
in comparison to the control, consuming casein. Furthermore, an increased concentration of high
density lipoproteins (HDL) was recorded. They also confirmed the hypoglycaemic effect of chia.
It was found that administration of chia seeds and flour reduced blood glucose level in comparison
to the control [45]. Ho et al. [46] observed that individuals consuming bread fortified with chia
seeds had lower postprandial glycemia in comparison to individuals, who consumed bread free from
that additive. This effect was dose-dependent. The lowest level of glycemia was recorded at the
addition of 24 g chia seeds, while it was highest at the addition of 7 g. Those authors suggested that
the hypoglycaemic effect of chia seeds results from their high content of dietary fibre [46]. Studies
conducted with type 2 diabetes patients showed that the daily supply of 15 g/1000 kcal chia seeds for
12 weeks caused a statistically significant reduction in the concentration of high-sensitivity C-reactive
protein (hs-CRP) (by 40%) and von Willebrand factor (by 21%). Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was
reduced by 6.3 mm Hg. No statistically significant differences were observed in blood glucose levels or
parameters of the blood lipid profile (TC, LDL, HDL, and TG) [47].
Other researchers investigated the influence of chia oil supplementation on body composition
and insulin signalling in skeletal muscles of obese mice [48]. The results indicate that mice treated with
chia oil show reduced fat mass accumulation and increased lean mass, improved glucose levels and
insulin tolerance, and increased blood levels of high density lipoprotein cholesterol. Creus et al. [49]
reported that dietary chia seeds improve the altered metabolic fate of glucose and reduce increased
collagen deposition in the heart of dyslipidaemic insulin-resistant rats fed a sucrose-rich diet.
The advantageous effect of chia seeds on the blood lipid profile was shown in an experiment
conducted by Chicco et al. [50]. They observed that rats fed a diet with high sucrose contents and
containing 2.6% chia seeds had lower blood concentrations of triglycerides, non-esterified fatty acids
and total cholesterol in comparison to the control. In that study, no changes were recorded in blood
glucose concentration. Additionally, in rats consuming chia seeds, a reduction of visceral fat level
was observed [50]. Comparable research results were obtained by Rossi et al. [51], who reported
lower blood concentrations of NEFA and TAG in rats, which were administered feed containing chia
seeds, in comparison to the control, in which chia seeds were replaced with corn oil. Additionally,
those researchers recorded a lower hepatic TAG level in those animals. That study analysed the effect
of chia seed consumption on the activity of selected enzymes involved in the synthesis of fatty acids.
It was found that animals fed chia seeds had lower levels of hepatic acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC)
and fatty acid synthase (FAS) activity in comparison to animals fed a diet rich in corn oil. Additionally,
in rats consuming seeds, they recorded a higher activity of carnitine palmitoyltransferase I (CPT-1),
participating in beta-oxidation of lipids [51].
The effect of chia seed oil consumption on the blood lipid profile was investigated in an experiment
conducted by Sierra et al. [52]. They observed that the administration of feed with 10% chia seed oil
caused a reduction of total cholesterol, HDL and TG. At the same time the level of LDL increased.
However, it needs to be stressed that statistically significant changes were recorded only for TG.
Moreover, in rabbits with induced hypercholesterolaemia, a weakened relaxation of aorta vessels in
response to acetylcholine (ACh) and a reduced secretion of nitric oxide (NO). The addition of chia seed
oil to the diet of rabbits caused increased aorta relaxation, triggered by acetylcholine, and an increased
NO release [52].
Fernandez et al. [53] analysed the effect of chia seed consumption on the immune system.
Their experimental model was based on the administration of ground chia seeds to rats (at 150 g/kg
diet) or chia seed oil (50 g/kg diet) for a period of one month. At the end of the dietary intervention,Nutrients 2019, 11, 1242 7 of 16
in both groups, they reported higher concentrations of immunoglobulin E (IgE) in comparison to the
control [53].
The effect of consumption of ground chia seeds on blood levels of selected fatty acids in
postmenopausal women was assessed in a study conducted by Jin et al. [35]. They showed that a
daily intake of 25 g chia seeds during a seven-week dietary intervention caused an increase in blood
concentrations of alfa-linoleic acid (by 138%) and eicosapentaenoic acid (by 30%). No differences
were observed in the levels of docosapentaenoic or docosahexaenoic acids [35]. In experiments
conducted with 12 healthy volunteers Vertommen et al. [54] showed that one-month administration
of chia seeds at 50 g daily contributed to a reduction of waist circumference with no simultaneous
change in body weight. Moreover, in the participants they recorded a decrease in diastolic blood
pressure (DBP) from 66.1 to 61.5 mmHg and a reduced blood triglyceride concentration from 89 to
69 mg/dL [54]. Segura-Campos et al. [55] showed that hydrolysates of chia seed proteins show an
activity inhibiting angiotensin convertase (ACE). They observed that the inhibition of activity of the
enzyme converting angiotensin is dependent on the duration of hydrolysis. The highest activity was
recorded in hydrolysates obtained at 150 min (IC50 = 8.86 ug protein/mL), while it was lowest in
hydrolysates produced within the time of 90 min (IC50 = 44.01 ug/mL) [55]. The inhibitory effect in
relation to the activity of angiotensin convertase by fractions of proteins found in chia seeds was
confirmed in an experiment performed by Orona-Tamayo et al. [56]. In their study among the analysed
protein fractions (albumin, globulin, prolamin, and glutelin), the strongest action inhibiting ACE
activity was observed for globulin and albumin. Nieman et al. [57] did not confirm the hypolipemizing
action and the effect lowering arterial blood pressure of chia seeds. Consumption of 50 g chia seeds a
day by obese men and obese women over a period of 12 weeks caused no changes in values of analysed
parameters. No statistically significant differences were recorded in glucose level; concentrations of
LDL, HDL and total cholesterol; and blood triglyceride level in comparison to the placebo group.
No changes were observed in the concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP) as well as cytokines:
interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor (TNF-α) and monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP). In that
study, a simultaneous increase was found for the blood plasma concentration of alfa-lipoic acid
(ALA) in a group of individuals consuming chia seeds. In contrast, no changes were recorded in
the concentration of the docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) [57]. Similar
research results were reported by Nieman et al. [58], who supplemented overweight women aged
49–75 years with a dose of 25 g chia seeds daily for a period of 10 weeks. Among the study participants
they reported no changes in the concentration of total cholesterol or blood glucose level. No effect
was shown on arterial blood pressure or the level of C-reactive protein. No changes were found
in the concentrations of analysed cytokines: interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 8 (IL-8), interleukin 10
(IL-10) or tumour necrosis factor (TNF-α). In contrast, in the blood of female participants following the
consumption of ground chia seeds an increase was recorded in the level of alfa-lipoic acid (by 58%)
and eicosapentaenoic acid (by 39%). At the same time, no changes were found in ALA and EPA levels
in the group of individuals consuming whole chia seeds [58].
5. Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity
Several studies provided evidence for the high antioxidant potential of chia seeds. Sargi et al. [59]
showed that chia seeds are capable of deactivating ABTS cation radicals. However, a higher activity
was recorded for seeds of brown and golden flax. Those authors also showed that chia seeds exhibit
the capacity to scavenge synthetic DPPH radicals and reduce iron ions. Results obtained in both tests
indicate a higher antioxidant activity of chia seeds in comparison to flaxseed [59]. Antioxidant activity
of chia seeds was also confirmed by Coelho and Salas-Mellado [39]. They showed that extracts from
chia seeds are capable of quenching DPPH radicals and they cause their neutralisation by over 70%.
Additionally, they showed that these extracts inhibit enzymatic oxidation of guaiacol [39]. In turn,
Segura-Campos et al. [55] confirmed that protein hydrolysates from chia seeds are also capable of
reducing ABTS cation radicals. They suggested that the tested protein hydrolysates could act asNutrients 2019, 11, 1242 8 of 16
electron donors [55]. A major indicator of antioxidant potential in biological samples is provided by
Nutrients 2018, 10, x FOR PEER REVIEW 8 of 16
the value of ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity). It was shown that ORAC of chia seeds is
comparable
Antioxidanttoactivity
that of of
prunes and hazelnuts
compounds (Figure
contained 3). Antioxidant
in chia activity
seeds was also of compounds
confirmed contained
in the fat emulsion in
chia seeds was also confirmed in the fat emulsion system. Reyes-Caudillo et
system. Reyes-Caudillo et al. [25] assessed the effect of chia seed extract addition on the al. [25] assessed the effect
of chia seed extract
degradation rate of addition on the
beta-carotene indegradation
a model systemrate of
of beta-carotene in a model system
linoleic acid/beta-carotene in theof linoleic
course of
acid/beta-carotene in the course of heating at 50 ◦ C. They observed that extracts from chia seeds exhibit
heating at 50 °C. They observed that extracts from chia seeds exhibit antioxidant properties in the
antioxidant
model emulsion properties in the model
amounting to 73.5% emulsion amounting
and 79.3%. to 73.5%
They also and 79.3%.
confirmed They also
the capacity ofconfirmed
chia seedsthe to
capacity of chia seeds to
inhibit lipid peroxidation [25].inhibit lipid peroxidation [25].
3. ORAC values for antioxidant activity of selected
Figure 3. selected foods
foods [60,61].
[60,61]. ORAC, Oxygen Radical
Absorbance Capacity; H-ORAC, hydrophilic ORAC
hydrophilic ORAC value for water soluble antioxidants; L-ORAC,
L-ORAC,
antioxidants; TE,
lipophilic ORAC value for lipid soluble antioxidants; TE, Trolox
Trolox equivalents;
equivalents;compilation
compilationof
ofresults.
results.
The antioxidant
antioxidantproperties
propertiesofof chia seed
chia maymay
seed be used, as well
be used, as as other
well as natural substances
other natural (extract
substances
of rosemary,
(extract extract of
of rosemary, tea, gingko
extract biloba biloba
of tea, gingko extract,extract,
phenolic compounds)
phenolic compounds) to protect the lipids
to protect and
the lipids
biologically active substances in the oil during storage and use of thermal
and biologically active substances in the oil during storage and use of thermal processes and in processes and in new
designed food
food [62–64].
[62–64]. InInanan experiment
experiment conducted
conducted by by Marineli
Marineli et [24],
et al. al. [24],
obeseobese
rats rats
werewere fed
fed chia
chia seeds or chia seed oil at 133 and 40 g/kg diet, respectively,
seeds or chia seed oil at 133 and 40 g/kg diet, respectively, for 6 or 12 for 6 or 12 weeks. Among animals
consuming seeds or oil a statistically significant increase was observed in the activity of antioxidant
enzymes in blood i.e., that of
i.e. that of catalase
catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione (GSH) and
glutathione reductase (GRd), in comparison to the group of animals fed a high-fructose diet with no
chia supplementation. No No differences
differences were recorded in the concentration of superoxide dismutase
(SOD). At thethe same
sametime,
time,ininthethecase
caseofof hepatic
hepatic antioxidant
antioxidant enzymes
enzymes theythey reported
reported an increase
an increase in
in the
the activity of glutathione reductase and glutathione (only for chia seeds
activity of glutathione reductase and glutathione (only for chia seeds consumed for a period of 12consumed for a period of
12 weeks).
weeks). In In relation
relation to to
thethe other
other enzymes,
enzymes, nonodifferences
differenceswere
wereobserved
observedin intheir
theiractivity.
activity. In
In the same
study, after consumption of both chia seeds and chia oil, a reduction was
study, after consumption of both chia seeds and chia oil, a reduction was found in blood found in blood concentrations
of lipid peroxidation
concentrations of lipidbiomarkers:
peroxidation 8-isoprostane
biomarkers: and malondialdehyde
8-isoprostane (MDA). No changes
and malondialdehyde (MDA).were No
recorded in MDA
changes were concentration
recorded in MDA in livers of the in
concentration experimental
livers of theanimals [24]. animals [24].
experimental
Ayaz
Ayaz etetal.al.[65]
[65]demonstrated
demonstrated thatthat
consumption
consumption of chia
of seed
chia with
seed plain
with yogurt as a mid-morning
plain yogurt as a mid-
snack
morning induced
snack short-term satiety with
induced short-term no influence
satiety on moodon
with no influence states
moodin healthy
states inindividuals. A study
healthy individuals.
conducted by Segura-Campos
A study conducted et al. [55] did
by Segura-Campos not[55]
et al. confirm anyconfirm
did not antimicrobial action of protein
any antimicrobial hydrolysates
action of protein
from chia seeds.
hydrolysates from No chiainhibitory
seeds. Noeffect was observed
inhibitory effect wasforobserved
protein for
hydrolysates on the growth
protein hydrolysates of
on the
growth of Gram-positive bacteria such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus
subtilis, and Streptococcus agalactiae or Gram-negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella
typhi and Shigella flexneri [55].Nutrients 2019, 11, 1242 9 of 16
Gram-positive bacteria such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and
Streptococcus agalactiae or Gram-negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Shigella
flexneri [55].
6. Application of Chia Seeds in Food Industry
Due to the hydrophilic properties of chia seeds, they are used as substitutes for eggs and
fat [43,66,67]. Chia seeds can absorb water in amounts as much as 12-fold greater than their own
mass [68]. They provide food with characteristic consistency. At present, chia seeds are used whole,
ground and in the form of gel and oil. Gel of chia seeds may be used as a substitute of oil or eggs in
baked products. Such application facilitates reduced calorie and fat contents of products. Furthermore,
in the case of baked goods, the final product has a greater content of omega-3 acids, which are major
biological compounds of great importance for human health. Borneo et al. [69] showed that chia seed
gel may replace as much as 25% oil or eggs in cakes. They confirmed that the level of this substitution
has an advantageous effect on sensory attributes of the product, such as colour, taste, texture and
overall acceptance. However, in the case of replacement of 50–75% oil in dough, an adverse change was
observed in density and overall quality of the baked product [69]. As shown by Oliveira et al. [70], flour
from chia seeds may also be used to produce pasta as a substitute of wheat flour. In that experiment,
they found that pasta prepared with a share of chia flour had a greater nutritive value than the control
pasta. It had statistically significantly greater contents of protein, minerals and dietary fibre. It was
recorded that pasta with 7.5% wheat flour replaced with chia flour exhibited very good technological
properties and received the highest acceptance index in terms of taste [70]. Menga et al. [42] proposed
adding chia seeds and mucilage to rice flour for gluten-free fresh pasta. They demonstrated that
concentration of 10% of mucilage or chia seeds resulted in nutritious and healthy gluten free pasta
with cooking characteristics equivalent to commercial product as confirmed by its firmness.
High acceptance of breads with the addition of chia flour or chia seeds was reported in a study by
Coelho and Salas-Mellado [71]. They showed that the introduction of chia flour to breads at 7.8 g/100 g
and in the second variant chia seeds at 11.0 g/100 g provided a final product exhibiting a more
advantageous ratio of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) to saturated fatty acids (SAT) than that of the
control bread. For traditional bread, the PUFA:SAT ratio was 1.01, while for breads with an addition
of chia flour or chia seeds it was 3.1 and 3.9, respectively [71]. Fernandes and Salas-Mellado [72]
examined chia mucilage incorporation on the technological quality of breads and pound cakes with a
reduced fat content, and showed it to be an effective fat substitute, preserving quality attributes of
food products. A positive effect of chia flour addition on the nutritive value and sensory attributes of
chips was observed by Coorey et al. [73]. They stated that a 5% substitution of potato flour and rice
flour with chia flour is the most advantageous for appearance, colour, aroma, texture, taste and overall
acceptability of the final product. In turn, Campos et al. [74] showed that gruel made from chia seeds
may be used as a substitute of emulsifiers and stabilisers in the production of ice-cream. However,
an adverse change observed in that case of a change of ice-cream colour resulting from the dark colour
of chia gel [74]. In turn, Pintado et al. [75] investigated potential substitution of a part or all added fat
in frankfurters with chia flour or with an oil in water emulsion prepared by mixing chia flours with
water and oil olive. Introduction of chia to frankfurters provided a product enriched with dietary fibre,
minerals (potassium, magnesium, calcium, and manganese) as well as mono- and polyunsaturated
fatty acids. At the same time, the final product had calorie content reduced by approximately 26% and
sensorily acceptable [75]. Ding et al. [43] examined processing properties of chia seed on restructured
ham-like products and found that concentration of 1.0% decreased lipid and protein oxidation and
improved not only physicochemical and sensorial properties but also added the nutritional value
on low fat meat products. The advantageous effect of chia seeds on nutritive value was also shown
indirectly when investigating the composition of eggs laid by hens fed a feed with chia seeds. Contents
of omega-3 acids (mainly alfa-linoleic acid) increased in their eggs. Addition of chia seeds also causedNutrients 2019, 11, 1242 10 of 16
a reduction of the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 acid contents as well as the ratio of monounsaturated to
polyunsaturated fatty acids [76].
It also needs to be stressed that, when chia seeds are not ground to flour, they may be stored for a
long time. This results primarily from the husk surrounding the endosperm and secondly from the high
contents of compounds with a high antioxidant potential protecting fatty acids against oxidation [77].
At present, in the food industry in various countries worldwide, several products are made either based
on chia seeds or fortified with them. These include, e.g., breakfast cereals, cookies, cakes, fruit juices,
yogurts, sauces, jams and preserves [78,79]. However, currently both in Poland and in other European
countries, their number is relatively low, which results from the binding legal regulations and limits
concerning their use in technology. Chia is used in industrial food production as whole seeds, ground
or mucilage to increase the nutritional value of the product. There are numerous products with the
addition of chia on the market, such as bread, cookies, pasta, ice cream, yogurt, sausages or even ham.
It has been found that the industrial use of chia as a fat or egg substitute in food products does not
affect significantly their technological or physical properties.
7. Placing Chia Seeds on the EU Market—Legal Regulations
According to the European Union food law, there is a presumption that conventional foodstuffs,
in other words food products that have a tradition of use in the EU, may be considered as safe unless
new scientific findings indicate otherwise. Safety of foodstuffs that are in some way artificial or earlier
unknown for consumers has to be proven before (ex-ante) entering the food market [80]. Despite
their natural origin, due to the novelty feature of Salvia hispanica seeds with respect to the history of
their consumption in Europe, they are classified as novel food. According to Article 3 paragraph 2
point a of Regulation (EU) 2015/2283 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 November
2015 on novel foods, amending Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 of the European Parliament and of the
Council and repealing Regulation (EC) No 258/97 of the European Parliament and of the Council and
Commission Regulation (EC) No 1852/2001 (OJ L 327, 11.12.2015, p. 1), novel food means any food
that was not used for human consumption to a significant degree within the European Union before
15 May 1997, irrespective of the dates of accession of Member States to the Union [81,82].
Within the meaning of Regulation (EU) 2015/2283, Salvia hispanica (chia) seeds fall into category
IV of novel food, namely food consisting of or isolated from, or produced from plants or their parts
(Article 3 paragraph 2 point (a) (iv)) [81]. For the purpose of further considerations, it is worth noting
that chia seeds are an example of traditional food from third country. Briefly, according to Regulation
(EU) 2015/2283 such a food means novel food which is derived from primary production with a history
of safe use in a third country. In turn, the safe use in a third country means that safety of the food
in question has been confirmed with compositional data and from experience of continued use for
at least 25 years in the customary diet of a significant number of people in at least one third country.
As already mentioned at the beginning of this article, chia seeds were staple food for peoples inhabiting
Central America in pre-Colombian times and currently they are consumed as ingredients or additions
to many foodstuffs.
Since 1 January 2018, date of entry into force of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU)
2017/2470 of 20 December 2017 establishing the Union list of novel foods in accordance with Regulation
(EU) 2015/2283 of the European Parliament and of the Council on novel foods [OJ L 351, 30.12.2017,
p. 72, as amended], as a rule, novel food products or novel food ingredients can be placed on the EU
market or used in production of other foodstuffs by each food business operator on the condition that
such products or ingredients in question are included in the Union list of authorised novel foods and
all requirements specified in the list are met [82]. Chia seeds and chia oil as such, as well as some food
categories with these seeds or oil as ingredients, are included in the list (Table 5).
Therefore, meeting specified conditions on maximum levels and additional labelling, the chia
seeds can be used as an ingredient in the following products: bread products; baked products; breakfast
cereals; fruit, nut and seed mixes; fruit juice and fruit/vegetable blend beverages; fruit spreads; yoghurt;Nutrients 2019, 11, 1242 11 of 16
and sterilised ready to eat meals based on cereals grains, pseudocereals grains and/or pulses. There is no
need to undertake any administrative procedure to put the listed food products on the marked. In case
of other food products with chia seeds, a food business operator who intends to place such products
on the market within the Union should submit a notification of that intention to the Commission.
The Commission shall forward the valid notification to the Member States and the European Food
Safety Authority. Where no duly reasoned safety objections have been submitted to the Commission,
the Commission shall authorise the placing on the market within the Union of the food product
concerned and update the Union list.
Table 5. Chia seeds and chia seeds oil as authorised novel food according to Commission Implementing
Regulation (EU) 2017/2470 of 20 December 2017 establishing the Union list of novel foods in accordance
with Regulation (EU) 2015/2283 of the European Parliament and of the Council on novel foods [81,82].
Authorised Additional Specific Labelling
Conditions under Which the Novel Food May Be Used
Novel Food Requirements
Specified food category Maximum levels
Bread products 5% (whole or ground chia seeds)
Baked products 10% whole chia seeds
Breakfast cereals 10% whole chia seeds 1. The designation of the novel
food on the labelling of the
Fruits, nut and seed mixes 10% whole chia seeds foodstuffs containing it shall be
Fruit juice and fruit/vegetable blend 15 g/day for addition of whole, “Chia seeds (Salvia hispanica)”
Chia seeds
beverages mashed or ground chia seeds 2. Pre-packaged Chia
(Salvia hispanica)
(Salvia hispanica) seeds shall carry
Pre-packaged Chia seed as such 15 g/day whole chia seeds additional labelling to inform the
Fruit spreads 1% whole chia seeds consumer that the daily intake is
no more than 15 g
1,3 g whole chia seeds per 100 g of
Yoghurt yoghurt or 4,3 g whole chia seeds
per 330 g of yoghurt (portion)
Sterilised ready to eat meals based
on cereal grains, pseudocereals 5% whole chia seeds
grains and/or pulses
Specified food category Maximum levels
Fats and oils 10% The designation of the novel food
Chia oil from on the labelling of the foodstuffs
Salvia hispanica Pure chia oil 2 g/day containing it shall be “Chia oil
Food supplements as defined in (Salvia hispanica)”
2 g/day
Directive 2002/46/EC
8. Chia Seeds—Future Perspectives
In recent years, there has been an increased interest in chia seeds. This material became the subject
of many studies. Perspectives for the use of chia seeds relate to aspects health and also technological.
Chia can be part of the new foodstuffs with health-promoting qualities. The seeds are a good source
of fibre and can be recommended for diabetes and people with hypercholesterolaemia. Moreover,
they can be as supplement in the daily diet because of the high content of omega-3. Studies in vitro
and in vivo confirm the health benefits of chia seeds.
There are numerous proposals on the use of chia in dishes. Chia are characteristic because of the
possibility of attractive looking gels and the seeds are used in the form of seed flour or whole seeds.
Currently, chia seeds are used in Europe as a component of cereal products, e.g., breakfast cereals, rice
crisps, wafers, chips. The use of chia seeds in production of dairy products, fruit and vegetables or
meat stuffs have great perspectives. Although there are many gastronomical recipes for food products
with chia seeds, at present, their industrial application is hindered by the mentioned legal status of the
seed as a novel food ingredient. It means that a food business operator is required to obtain the official
premarket approval for each chia product not included in the Union list of authorised novel foods and
novel food ingredients, which is established by virtue of Regulation (EU) 2015/2283 of the European
Parliament and of the Council of 25 November 2015 on novel foods, amending Regulation (EU) No
1169/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council and repealing Regulation (EC) No 258/97 ofNutrients 2019, 11, 1242 12 of 16
the European Parliament and of the Council and Commission Regulation (EC) No 1852/2001 (OJ 327,
11.12.2015, p.1).
Chia seeds can be considered as promising component of health-promoting food with increased
biological and technological potential. However, similar to other biologically active plants and products
of natural origin, chia requires wide-ranging studies on humans to determine its safety, mechanisms of
action, as well as efficacy.
9. Conclusions
Already thousands of years ago chia seeds were staple food and they were consumed by
pre-Columbian peoples living primarily in Central America. In recent years, we have been observing
considerable interest in this raw material in relation to its high nutritive value. Chia seeds have high
contents of dietary fibre and proteins, rich in many exogenous amino acids. Moreover, chia seeds have
high contents of polyunsaturated fatty acids, mainly alfa-linolenic acid, belonging to the group of
omega-3 fatty acids. These seeds are also a good source of many minerals and vitamins, as well as
bioactive compounds of high antioxidant activity, particularly polyphenols and tocopherols. Current
research results indicate many health-promoting properties of chia seeds. These seeds are ascribed a
beneficial effect on the improvement of the blood lipid profile. Experiments confirmed their hypotensive,
hypoglycaemic, antimicrobial and immunostimulatory effects. Due to the capacity of chia seeds to
absorb water and to form gels, they may be used in food technology as a substitute of emulsifiers and
stabilisers. In conclusion, chia seeds (Salvia hispanica) are a valuable raw material whose technological
properties and health-promoting properties can be widely used in the food industry.
Author Contributions: B.K., conceptualisation, writing, review and editing; J.K.-C., conceptualisation and writing;
M.T., writing; D.K., writing; and A.G.-M., conceptualisation, writing, review and editing, supervision and
funding acquisition.
Funding: The publication co-financed within the framework of Ministry of Science and Higher Education
programme as “Regional Initiative Excellence” in years 2019–2022, project number 005/RID/2018/19.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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